Almachar: vineyards and raisin-making traditions in the Axarquia

History of Almachar

Almachar’s origins date back to the Moorish period. Historical records include names such as Macharalhayate and, later, Almachar de la Cruz. Together with Cutar, El Borge and Moclinejo, it formed the Cuatro Villas, a group of four villages linked to Comares Castle.

After the Christian conquest of the area in 1487, Almachar remained dependent on Comares. Farming, particularly grape growing, was central to the local economy. Weaving cloth on traditional looms was also an important activity in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Moscatel raisin tradition is still visible in the vineyards and drying beds on the hillsides. Almachar belongs to the Ruta de la Pasa, or Raisin Route, which links Axarquia villages associated with this crop.

Things to see in Almachar

The old town, San Mateo Church and places connected with raisin making offer an introduction to Almachar. These are some useful stops for planning a visit:

1. San Mateo Parish Church: Built in the 16th century, it combines late Gothic and Renaissance features with a Mudéjar-style tower. Inside are three naves and small devotional chapels added later. (Map)
2. Museo de la Pasa (Raisin Museum): Housed in a traditional home on Plaza del Santo Cristo, the museum explores Moscatel grapes and how they are turned into raisins. (Map)
3. Calle de los Martires: This street runs around the church and includes a vaulted passage showing how buildings were adapted to the uneven ground. (Map)
4. Calle de la Cabra and the old town: Narrow streets, steps and small passageways between whitewashed houses form a walking route through the historic centre.
5. María Zambrano Park: The park has a children’s play area and hosts cultural events and local celebrations. (Map)
6. Forfe Gardens and Cueva del Moro: The gardens beside the Almachar River overlook the surrounding area and the entrance to the cave. Local legend tells of treasure hidden by the Moriscos; this is a story passed down locally, rather than a documented discovery.
7. SL-A 65 Almachar–Cerro Patarra trail: A circular walk of around 7–8 km, taking roughly two to three hours depending on pace and conditions. It passes vineyards, wine presses and grape-drying beds, with views towards the Axarquia hills, Velez-Malaga and the coast. Take water and avoid the hottest part of the day. (Map)

Walking around the old town

Calle de la Cabra and Calle de los Martires are useful starting points for a walk. The irregular street layout follows the hillside, alternating between alleyways, steps and passages. Comfortable shoes are advisable, and some stretches may be difficult with a pushchair or limited mobility.

The Raisin Museum and local farming traditions

The Raisin Museum displays farming tools, utensils and recreations of grape harvesting and raisin production. A visit helps explain the work behind the drying beds seen in the surrounding countryside.

Check opening arrangements with the town hall before planning a visit.

Festivals and traditions in Almachar

Religious celebrations and food festivals are part of the village calendar:

• San Blas: The feast day of one of Almachar’s patron saints is celebrated on 3 February.
• Santo Cristo de la Banda Verde festival: Usually held on the first weekend in May, with religious services and a procession honouring one of the village’s most venerated religious images.
• Romería de San Isidro: This rural pilgrimage usually takes place around the weekend closest to 15 May, bringing together religious celebrations and outdoor activities.
• Almachar village fair: Held in late July, usually on the last weekend, in honour of the village’s patroness, Nuestra Señora del Amparo.
• Fiesta del Ajoblanco: Traditionally held on the first Saturday in September. Ajoblanco tastings are accompanied by raisins, wine, music and displays of local traditions. (Map)

Exact dates and programmes can change. Check the town council’s information before planning a trip around a celebration.

Food in Almachar

Ajoblanco is Almachar’s best-known dish. Local cooking also includes the soups and stews traditionally made in Axarquia homes, alongside produce linked to grape growing:

• Ajoblanco: A cold soup made with almonds, garlic, bread, olive oil, water and vinegar, usually served with Moscatel grapes.
• Moscatel raisins: Grapes dried in the sun on paseros, one of the village’s most characteristic products.
• Maimones: A bread and garlic soup, with variations between family recipes.
• Gazpacho: A cold tomato and vegetable soup, commonly eaten in warmer months.
• Sopas amarillas: A local dish of bread and broth with a base of sautéed vegetables and seasonings.
• Berzas de coles: A cabbage-based stew with other ingredients used in traditional home cooking.
• Coles moreás: Another traditional cabbage dish, also known as coles moreadas.
• Puchero: A stew of meat, pulses and vegetables, widely made in Andalusian homes.
• Cured meats and local produce: Chorizo, morcilla blood sausage and other traditional products add to the area’s food specialities.

The connection between farming and food is especially apparent in late summer, during the grape harvest and drying season.

Getting to Almachar and exploring the area

From Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, the drive is around 40–50 km and generally takes between 45 minutes and an hour. These are approximate figures, depending on the route and traffic.

One option is to follow the A-7 towards Rincon de la Victoria, then head inland towards Moclinejo and Almachar. The final stretch has bends and changes in elevation, so allow for driving time rather than judging the journey by distance alone.

Exploring Almachar and the Axarquia by car

A car is useful if you want to combine Almachar with El Borge, Cutar, Comares or Moclinejo, follow the Raisin Route or reach walking trails and rural accommodation. It also lets you combine inland visits with time on the coast, where public transport options are wider.

car hire Malaga airport

Taxi or private transfer from the airport

A taxi or private transfer takes you directly from the airport to Almachar. It can be convenient if you have luggage, are travelling in a group or arrive after bus services have finished. If you are staying in a rural property outside the village, give the exact address when booking.

Book a private transfer

*No advance payment is required and cancellation is free. We therefore recommend booking ahead to secure your vehicle and price.

Getting to Almachar by public transport

Almachar has no railway station. From the airport, you can take the Cercanías local train or airport bus to Malaga, then continue by bus.

There are bus connections with Malaga and Torre del Mar. Before travelling, ask Almachar council about available services and outward and return times for your travel date. The bus does not follow the shortest driving route and can take considerably longer.

Once in Almachar, the old town is best explored on foot, bearing in mind its slopes, steps and uneven levels.

Practical information for Almachar